The Shoe Salesman Gets a Bad Rep

Ever wonder why the profession of selling shoes gets such a bad rep? I used to laugh at the antics of Al Bundy when he was working in the shoe store on "Married With Children," and yet, I took a part-time job working in a shoe store. I think most people get the willies when they think about touching someone else's feet. I know I did. But for the most part, we never touch feet unless we're measuring a child's foot in a Brannock Device (yes, that metal sliding contraption actually has a name).

There's much more to selling shoes than merely convincing a customer to buy a pair of shoes. I'm a therapist...I listen to people tell me why they need new shoes or where they are planning on wearing them. I listen to them share the details of an upcoming trip or sporting event. And most importantly, I listen to what they like and dislike about their current shoes. I'm a personal shopper...I see pictures of the prom dress or hear about the outfit and help them find something that will look great with it. I'm a matchmaker...I try to match each and every customer with the perfect shoe, all while taking into consideration their foot size, need for support and desire for comfort. And I'm an expert...learning all I can about the design construction of each shoe and manufacturer. Did you know that most Nike's are manufactured in countries like Indonesia, China and Vietnam? Despite the random "inspection" of the athletic shoes, you may find differences between the two shoes a single box. That is why I always recommend trying on BOTH shoes. Many people also have one foot that is larger than the other. If you don't try on both shoes you may not find out that one is ill-fitting until you get home. Nike's also run narrower than many other brands of athletic shoes. So, if you have a wide foot I suggest looking for an Asics or New Balance which tend to run wider.

Often a customer will come in looking for one shoe and end up leaving with something very different. Price, color and availability are often contributing factors, but sometimes you (the salesman) show them that what they thought they wanted was not what was best for their feet. The most common request I get is for a "good walking shoe." Well, what's "good" for me may not be right for you. If you're planning on walking down the cobblestone streets of England there's hardly a better walking shoe than Clarks. Clarks have wonderful support, great construction and terrific shock absorption. Shown left is the Recent Alley, $79 from their Tried and True Collection.

But if you're planning to take a cruise or a walk around Atlanta for the day, I might suggest the GOWalk3 by Sketchers. Sketchers new memory foam insole and lightweight construction make this shoe an ideal choice for most women. It's available in a variety of colors for about $59 or less.

So, next time you walk into a shoe store and tell that salesman "you're just looking," keep in mind that the job they do is no joke. They're there to help you and you don't have to pay extra for their expertise.

Until next week...Happy feet make for a happy home!
Erica